Merz rules out fast EU membership for Ukraine, proposes gradual integration plan
Photo: Friedrich Merz (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Ukraine should deepen its integration into European Union processes, but a rapid accession to the bloc is not possible at this stage, according to Deutsche Welle.
Germany’s stance on Ukraine’s membership
After the EU leaders' summit in Nicosia, Merz noted that the issue of Ukraine’s immediate accession to the EU is not currently under consideration. In his view, such a scenario is unrealistic in the near term.
"Everyone understands that Ukraine’s immediate accession to the EU is impossible, of course," Merz said.
Gradual integration format
At the same time, the Chancellor stressed the need to deepen Ukraine’s engagement with European institutions.
This includes closer participation in EU structures and gradual inclusion in specific policy areas depending on reform progress.
As an example, he suggested the possibility of Ukraine’s President taking part in European Council meetings without voting rights.
Strategy for closer ties with the EU
Merz also called for launching a separate process within the EU aimed at gradually bringing Ukraine closer to the bloc.
According to him, full membership remains the ultimate goal, but intermediate steps are necessary.
"It is important that this rapprochement also accelerates accession talks and serves as a bridge to future full membership," he said.
The Chancellor added that he had discussed this approach with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in recent days.
Merz recently said he does not consider it appropriate to transfer Taurus missiles to Ukraine, since, in his opinion, Ukrainian weapons are more effective.
Germany is also preparing a major defense deal that could significantly impact the balance within Europe’s defense-industrial complex.
